Wellness Wake Up Call

As we ring in the New Year, we also celebrate National Blood Donor Month. During the winter months, supplies often run low. So, consider rolling up your sleeve this January to give the gift of life.

What is Wellness Wake Up Call?

Wake up to better health with Wellness Wake Up Call! In just two minutes, University of Illinois Extension and WVIK, Quad Cities NPR, bring you bite-sized, science-based guidance to support lasting health and well-being. Each episode offers simple, practical tips and motivation to help you take small steps toward a healthier, happier life.

Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake-Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
As we ring in the New Year, we also celebrate National Blood Donor Month. Donating blood is an incredible way to give back, offering a lifesaving gift to people in need. Blood donations support patients recovering from accidents, undergoing surgery, receiving cancer treatments, or living with blood disorders.
Donating blood is a personal decision, but it has a lasting impact. A single donation can save up to three lives, because blood can be separated into red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Some people donate because they or a loved one has needed blood. Others give simply because it provides a sense of purpose and is a selfless act of kindness.
Your blood type also plays an important role. Some blood types are more rare and are always in high demand. With only three percent of eligible Americans donating yearly, shortages are common, making regular donations vital.
The process itself is simple, safe, and takes about an hour. You’ll make an appointment or register with your local blood bank, answer a brief health questionnaire, and complete a mini-physical, where they check vital signs and hemoglobin levels. Then you’re ready to donate.
During the winter months, supplies often run low. Seasonal illnesses, holidays, and winter storms all contribute to fewer donations, yet the need never stops. So, consider rolling up your sleeve this January to give the gift of life. Contact your local blood bank today to schedule your appointment.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. Content for this episode was provided by Diane Reinhold, food and nutrition educator for University of Illinois Extension.
Resources:
https://login.bloodcenter.org/donor/schedules/zip
https://www.redcrossblood.org/